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Classic Holidays ‘Work Inspiration’ Program a Success

A new work experience program carried out this month at Gold Coast-based Resort and Club Management company Classic Holidays has been a resounding success.

The Work Inspiration program was run across three business areas of Classic Holidays throughout November, with Year 10 students from Varsity College gaining hands-on experience working in the tourism industry.

Program Coordinator and Sandy Point Resort Manager, Julia Whitton, said the program received high praise from all students and staff involved, and the company had committed to doing it again next year.

“We are so thrilled to have introduced this program at Classic Holidays, to provide such a practical, meaningful opportunity for local high school students,” said Ms Whitton.

“The Work Inspiration program has opened these students’ minds to the career possibilities that are out there. It has also developed their confidence and communication skills to a level that would not be achieved by any other work experience program.

“This program is unique, it’s personalised, it’s interactive and fun – the students absolutely loved it and everyone involved at Classic Holidays gained so much out of it as well.”

A two-day program was run at Classic Holidays’ Head Office with 12 students working one-on-one with staff mentors to develop an understanding of the type of roles available within the company.

Further two- and three-day programs were run at Classic Managed Resorts – Sandy Point, Surfers Royale and Golden Shores, with students learning about roles in Reception and Grounds.

Linda Dallas, Industry Liaison officer at Varsity College said Classic Holidays’ Work Inspiration program provided positive outcomes for every student involved.

“It has been terrific,” said Ms Dallas. “It’s so refreshing to have a company that actually wants to take the kids on with a structured work placement program.

“The level of support the students received was fantastic. Classic’s staff mentors took the time to get to know the kids, gain their trust and assist them to feel comfortable so they could ask questions and have a go.

“Our students who were involved with Grounds projects at the Resorts got a real sense of accomplishment in starting and finishing a project. They realised what they could achieve – to us that is the best outcome of all.”

Ms Whitton said the benefits to Classic Holidays were numerous. “Introducing Work Inspiration has allowed us to help young people in meaningful ways,” she said.

“It has not only been a great way for Classic to give back to the community, it has also given our staff the opportunity to become mentors and experience the reward of guiding others.

Ms Whitton said following the program, several students stepped forward to actively seek further work experience opportunities and traineeships with the company.

“From the feedback we got from students, 100% agreed or strongly agreed that Work Inspiration at Classic Holidays has helped them think about what they want in a career, and 100% agreed that Classic Holidays is somewhere they would like to work one day.”